The River Club

Livingstone, Zambia

At a Glance

Enjoy a sunset cruise along the Zambezi River and take in the incredible views

Have a look through the lodge's library; there are some old and fascinating books to leaf through

Take part in a Rhino Walk through the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park to find the rhino and elephant which live there

Ideally located for exploring the magnificent Victoria Falls and nearby Livingstone

Open-fronted cottages offer fantastic views of the Zambezi River

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Best time to Visit

Good time to visit

Average time to visit

There are two very distinct seasons at the Victoria Falls, the wet/flood season and the dry season. These seasons do not reflect the quantity of rain, rather reflect the volume of flow of the Zambezi River. From around March through to July the river surges in size as the rainfall in Angola and Zambia from months before swells the current. The falls are at their most dramatic at this time of year with huge columns of spray. The nights are cold and the days warm at this time of year. From around September to January the water levels drop, the falls are more accessible and views are clearer as the flow can drop in volume by 90%. It is worth noting that the rains come from late October through to February, this combined with high heat, 40 celsius or more, in October and November, causes high levels of humidity.

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Insider's View

Go bungy jumpng off the famous Victoria Falls Bridge.

Wander around the hotel and soak in the history adorning the walls

Go for a sundowner river cruise looking for elephant, buffalo, crocodiles and monitor lizards

Take in the peaceful Zambezi from the privacy of your personal hammock

Call us on 858 345 1761 to start planning your vacation to The River Club or take a look at our itineraries to Victoria Falls

Description

The River Club is a small elegant lodge situated on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River on the Zambian side and just 18km upstream from magnificent Victoria Falls. An elegant and gracious retreat, each chalet overlooks the river with beautiful views.

The River Club is situated in a peaceful and tranquil setting away from the crowds. It is an Edwardian-style house and has manicured lawns on the banks of the swift-flowing Zambezi River where hippo and crocodile float provide a pleasing mix of Africa and Europe.

The lodge comprises just 10 split-level thatched cottages equipped with ceiling fans, air conditioning and en-suite bathrooms. The luxurious rooms are all completely glass-fronted, giving guests the best possible views of the Zambezi. The colonial style main building houses the dining room, and the drawing room has a fascinating library, which focuses on the history of southern Africa. The newly opened Princes Mary Suite is a two-bedroom house with private plunge pool, lounge and dining area. The house has been designed to be beautifully light and airy and is found at the highest point of the property with some of the best views of the river. There is also a wonderful infinity-edge swimming pool, with spectacular views over the Zambezi, where elephant and hippo are regularly seen on the river bank. Guests can spend the days relaxing at the lodge or enjoying the numerous activities on offer. Livingstone is rich in history and certainly worth exploring. It dates back to 1905 when the famous Victoria Falls bridge, spanning the Zambezi River, was completed in April of that year. Many of the town amenities date back to the early 1900s, including the recently renovated 18-hole golf course (1908), the country's first synagogue (1928) and later on its Museum (1953) where many of David Livingstone's personal possessions are on display today. Also on offer is a variety of adrenaline-loaded activities including white water rafting, bungee jumping, abseiling, and helicopter flights over the Falls.

The Zambezi River offers ample fishing opportunities. Tiger fishing is an unforgettable challenge for keen fishermen, particularly during the warmer months. There are several varieties of bream (Tilapia) that are also a good catch. For the more sporting, try catching them on fly.

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Accommodation

Accommodation is in 10 luxurious cottages including one family room. The rooms are spread out amongst the riverine vegetation, and all have en-suite bathrooms, most being split-level. Their originality stems from the fact that one side is completely open to the river, so that there is an uninterrupted vista of the Zambezi and its far bank from both bed and bath.

The latest addition is the Princes Mary Suite, an airy two bedroom house with stunning river views with a private plunge pool, lounge and dining area.

Childcare

There are no specific child care facilities and the lodge has a minimum age of 6 years. Food and activities can be tailored to suit the younger guests and babysitting may be arranged for those that require it.

Facilities

The main area is a well-appointed residence, with a comfortable lounge, large dining room, impressive library and wide veranda on which breakfasts and teas are taken. Lush gardens (where midday meals are often served) spread out beneath the trees is a croquet court . There is a tennis court and lovely infinity pool which seems part of the river itself, while a secluded deck with hammocks and loungers provides respite. A wellness center houses a treatment room for manicures, pedicures, facials and massages as well as a sauna, Jacuzzi and mini gym with electronic exercise equipment.

The lodge also has a gift shop.

Activities

Activities include sun-downer cruises, visits to the Victoria Falls, Simonga Village, local markets and Livingstone town. Livingstone is rich in history and certainly worth exploring.

Also on offer is a variety of adrenaline-loaded activities including white water rafting, bungee jumping, abseiling, and helicopter flights over the Falls.

Reviews

4

Meg Shepro
(Staff)

The River Club is a gorgeous destination ideal for those looking to take a step back to colonial Africa. During my time here, we listened to stories about the rich history of Zambia and the wonderful stories that come from the properties itself. The staff are incredibly kind and welcoming to ensure you feel right at home as you enjoy the peace and quiet of the Zambezi River just a few miles upstream of the bustling Victoria Falls.

4

Sian Frost
(Staff)

The River Club has an old colonial charm. Beautiful old buildings surrounded by large gardens is a brilliant place to stay when exploring the Zambian side of the falls. The pool is lovely with a great view over the Zambezi. The lodge has a very relaxed feel. Renovations are slowly taking places but ensuring that the character of the hotel remains unchanged.

5

Louisa Verney
(Staff)

Unless you want to stay in Livingstone itself (not necessary in our opinion) River Club is an excellent place to stay to access Victoria Falls and all the activities on offer there. It’s right on the edge of the Zambezi with stunning river views from the rooms, just 18km upriver from the falls. Livingstone and the falls are half an hour away by car.

The vibe is quite colonial with Pete Jones, the owner, on hand to host guests, set up a game of croquet on the lawn and tell stories of the Rhodesia of his youth, as well as the Zambia of today. Sunset cruises on the river are highly recommended and there’s a lovely pool to relax by when you’re not on the go.

The rooms all overlook the river and are beautifully furnished with all mod-cons.

Location & directions

Livingstone, Zambia

The River Club is situated on the Zambian side of the Zambezi River, 18 kilometers upstream from the Victoria Falls.